Impact of coinfections on the balance of antibody and T helper cell responses to target antigens of natural and vaccinal immunity against prominent human pathogens

The aim is to characterize the immune profile in individuals living in malaria and HIV endemic areas of Africa exposed to neglected parasites (intestinal helminths and protozoa and schistosome) in order to understand the impact that the coexistence of infections may have on the phenomenon of immune deviation. and in response to vaccinations. Retrospective immunological analyzes will be performed on blood and stool samples already collected in EcoHeMa and MARS studies aimed at (i) evaluating the frequency of co-infections by intestinal parasites and malaria in outpatients and the impact on the immune response and the intestinal microbiome (EcoHeMa), and (ii) to establish the prevalence of infection by intestinal parasites and schistosome at the community level in the district of Manhiça (MARS). Immunological characterization will measure IgG and IgE antibody responses to helminth antigens, which are currently being evaluated as potential vaccine candidates at Baylor College of Medicine (USA). This information will be useful in guiding the selection of target helminth vaccine antigens in their clinical development.

Project details

Vaccines (Immune Correlates)

Jan 2021 — Dec 2023

$194,987

Spain